The Kawasaki W800 that has been a classic for a long time is ending production with the release of the Final Edition. It is the last time we see a new W800 Motorcycle and its traditional old-style look charm. For now, let’s go for a closer look at the Kawasaki W800 to remember all it has given us over this time.

The Look - One of the most appealing things about the Kawasaki W800 is the way it looks. Of course, the machine takes the first place, but we will save it for later. The overall style of the Kawasaki W800 is a retro-style, with well-cared details that show us how an astonishing machine is roaring inside the motorcycle. For those fans of classic motorcycles, the chrome rims are a must. It also features a real streamlined tank with amazing lights plus a classic saddle that makes it the perfect resemblance of the 60’s style. In addition to that, there are no visible plastic parts, and metal rules, creating a more realistic sensation.

The Ride - The ride is just the way it looks, with a few improvements. If you have ridden a British Classic Motorcycle from the 60s, you know what I mean. If you have not, I will try to describe it for you. You can feel the road as you are riding. When you pick the revs, it goes slows. To make it stop, you must put some strength on the machine to do it properly. You have to be strong to ride the Kawasaki W800, just like the rude guys from the 60s, who loved to ride their motorcycles because it required attitude. You cannot compare the Kawasaki W800 to any modern bike around. It is not for the new wave riders. It is a classic experience, and the ride adds points because they achieved a realistic feel. The improvements come from what I consider the worse things of motorcycles at that age. The Kawasaki will not break easily, meaning the machine has gone through serious improvements, and you do not have an eternal oil leak. It also has a modern electric system, which takes advantage of the technology advancements. All these improvements make it a much more reliable bike.

The Indicators and Instrumentation - The indicators are a combination of old fashion and modernity. The Kawasaki W800 has the traditional speedometer and tachometer. However, you get sucked to the new century when you see the LCD screen where you can see a clock plus the trip meter and the odometer. It also has the indicators a modern motorcycle has, including:

Dual turn signal indicators

FI warning lamp

High beam indicator

Low fuel level indicator

Neutral indicator

Oil pressure warning lamp

That speaks of the improvements with sensors and the overall electrical system, which was not available 50 years ago. A time traveller from that time would be totally confused with it.

Adjustments - You can adjust the clutch and the breaks of the Kawasaki W800 to your personal style. The clutch has five different levels to change. The breaks have four levels. All these let the rider tune their motorcycle and make it personal. Also, the rear shock absorber can be adjusted to a preload on the springs. However, this feature is not of much use and few people make any changes.

The Engine - We have left the engine for last because it is one of the best features of the Kawasaki W800. It is a classic but improved machine. In my opinion, the improvements are an advantage, except if you are fond on the mechanics involved on old engines, which were never right. You can save some grease from your fingers and just get on the road! The engine is a 773cc, air-cooled, with a vertical-twin system. Compared to old engines, the Kawasaki W800 features a lighter machine. That reduces the overall weight of the motorcycle. But don’t get me wrong. It is still heavy since most of it is metal. However, the materials to build the engine have been optimised to its best. The next significant improvement is the dual throttle valves on the engine of the Kawasaki W800. They are not meant to compete with the modern sports bikes, but to smooth the ride. You will get better control because the engine will respond better when the throttle is opened.

Conclusion - The Kawasaki W800 was a good remembrance of the past, taking the best from the present. We are going to miss the rude looks and the hard ride. The improvements are thought to save you some time in mechanics. You get a more efficient machine (773cc), plus the addition of instrumentation. Therefore you get the most fun part of the 60s ride and forget about the headaches of mechanics.